Kelly Stafford, wife of Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, recently shared her concerns about flying with her sick family to the Rams’ playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings. The game, originally scheduled for SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, was relocated to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, due to wildfires in Los Angeles. The Rams organization provided a plane for the team and their families, but Kelly and her four daughters were battling the flu.
This presented a significant dilemma for Kelly. She questioned whether she should expose the team and their families to her sick children, especially considering the importance of the upcoming playoff game. “There was a huge guilt factor to me going, ‘Should we be on this plane right now because of everyone surrounding us and everyone who has to play this game?’” she admitted on her podcast, “The Morning After.”
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Kelly Stafford and family. Image via Kelly Stafford/Instagram.
However, after consulting with others on the flight, she received overwhelming encouragement to join the team. They emphasized the importance of team unity during this crucial time. Matthew Stafford also insisted that the family travel together. “Matthew was like, ’No, we will do whatever it takes. We are all getting on this plane. We are going to be together right now,’” Kelly shared.
Despite the reassurance, Kelly’s concerns for her children’s health persisted. She documented their struggles with the flu on social media, sharing photos of her daughters in a hospital bed just two days before the game. One image showed Matthew comforting their daughter in the arena, highlighting the family’s resilience amidst the health challenges.
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Matthew Stafford comforts his daughter. Image via Kelly Stafford/Instagram.
Kelly continued to provide updates on her daughters’ condition, expressing her hope for their recovery. The situation underscored the challenges faced by NFL families, particularly during high-stakes periods like the playoffs. This incident highlighted the balance between professional commitments and family well-being, a constant juggling act for athletes and their loved ones.
Prior to the decision to travel, Kelly had considered temporarily moving out of their home to protect Matthew from the illness. She understood the importance of keeping him healthy for the playoffs. “If all my kids have the flu, I don’t think we should be in this house with him,” she stated.
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Kelly Stafford’s daughters sleep on the plane to Arizona. Image via Kelly Stafford/Instagram.
Ultimately, the Stafford family faced a difficult decision, choosing to prioritize team unity and family togetherness. Kelly’s willingness to share her experience provided a glimpse into the challenges and sacrifices made by NFL families during the demanding playoff season. The situation ultimately emphasized the importance of support systems and the unwavering commitment of families in the face of adversity.
